2025 HCPCS code K0738
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Durable Medical Equipment (DME) - Oxygen and Oxygen Equipment Miscellaneous DME and Accessories Feed
Rental of a portable gaseous oxygen system with a home compressor for filling portable oxygen cylinders.
Modifiers such as RR (rental) and KX (requirements specified in the medical policy have been met) may be applicable.
Medical necessity for K0738 is established when a patient requires supplemental oxygen and a portable system is deemed necessary for activities outside the home. The home compressor feature is medically necessary for convenient and cost-effective refilling of portable oxygen tanks.
The provider is responsible for supplying and documenting the medical necessity of the portable gaseous oxygen system with a home compressor.They must also ensure the patient understands how to use the equipment safely and effectively.
In simple words: This code covers renting a portable oxygen tank system with a compressor to refill the tanks at home.It includes everything you need: the portable tanks, the parts that control and measure the oxygen flow, a humidifier to moisten the air, the mask or nosepiece to breathe the oxygen, and the tubing to connect it all.
This code covers the rental of a portable gaseous oxygen system that includes a home compressor used to fill portable oxygen cylinders. The system includes portable containers, regulator, flowmeter, humidifier, cannula or mask, and tubing.
Example 1: A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requires supplemental oxygen and needs a portable system for use outside the home. The home compressor allows them to refill their portable tanks easily., A patient with cystic fibrosis requires supplemental oxygen during physical activity and uses the portable system while exercising. They use the home compressor to refill their portable oxygen cylinders., A patient with pulmonary fibrosis is prescribed supplemental oxygen at home and needs a portable solution for travel. The home compressor allows for convenient refilling of the oxygen cylinders.
Documentation should include the patient's diagnosis, oxygen flow rate prescription, medical necessity for the portable system and home compressor, and patient education on equipment use.
** Medicare covers the rental of portable gaseous oxygen systems with a home compressor under certain conditions. The 36-month rental cap applies to the system, including the compressor. After 36 months, Medicare continues to pay for oxygen contents.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Pulmonology, Respiratory Therapy, Internal Medicine
- Place of Service:Home